By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Anglican Bishop of Isuikwuato Diocese, Umunneochi, Abia State, Rt Rev Manasses Okere, has said that the coming of Coronavirus (COVID-19) has exposed the weakness of Nigeria’s health sectors globally.

He said that despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, it has created opportunity for families to come together in prayer adding that it has also brought fortunes.

Bishop Okere, who spoke as the guest preacher at the 12th Synod of the Diocese of Awka, Anambra State, said: “COVID-19 has brought good fortunes, though it has caused havoc. It has re-united families. People sat down with their families to pray.

“Thank God for the efforts so far, though with a mixture of politics. We continue to look unto God.

“People have turned to God knowing that science has failed. It’s not God that brought it, but he’s aware that it’s coming, and will work out His purpose through it.”

Speaking on the theme, “God of Eternal Destiny and His Major Attributes”, the cleric described COVID-19 as a blessing in disguise.

“God is aware COVID-19 will come the time it came. Nothing takes God by surprise. He’s in charge of his creatures. All things worketh together, whether good or bad for the good of God’s children.

“COVID-19 has brought good fortunes, though it has caused havoc. It has re-united families. People sat down with their families to pray,” he stated.

The cleric thanked Archbishop Province on the Niger and Bishop of Anglican Dioceae of Awka, Most Rev Alexander Chibuzor Ibezim, and his wife, Mrs. Martha Chioma Ibezim, for their steadfastness in the service of the Lord.

Earlier in his speech, Most Rev Ibezim prayed that Christians will not be found wanting at the end of the Christian race to heaven, particularly Church leaders.

He commended the family of Dr Okey Anuenyiagu for building the primary school block, particularly his late father who led others to champion Anglicanism in Amudo Village Awka and Awka diocese in general.

Highlight of the occasion was the distribution of free facemasks by the President of Mothers’ Union, women and Girls' Guild to the synod delegates and guests as well as dedication of a two-storey building for the Primary school in the premises of the church built by Dr Anuenyiagu.

The synod, which hosted no fewer than 10 Bishops also witnessed the planting of economic trees by Archbishop Ibezim.